Prep Rally

On Monday afternoon, Brendan Hempstead found himself facing one of the most significant trials of his life, sitting in the front pew at his father's funeral. Sat next to Hempstead was the entire La Canada (Calif.) High basketball team, showing solidarity for their suffering teammate.

"I have a real good base with my family, friends and teammates," Hempstead told the Valley Sun "I look at playing basketball as an outlet and my dad has always supported me. It meant a lot to see my teammates and coaches attend the funeral. It showed that they cared, and I thank my teammates for pushing me."

Add the sophomore's totals together and he scored 46 points in two games played within 18 hours of his father's funeral.

The victories have served as a fitting memory for the late Hempstead. Both have come in pool play during the ongoing annual La Canada Tournament, and have set the stage for a further fairy tale run for the team just days removed from Todd Hempstead's death and funeral.